St. Louis in 3 Days for Friends - Tram to the top of the Gateway Arch
A lively, group-friendly 3-day St. Louis plan for friends who want social meals, playful daytime adventures, live music and optional nightlife. Built for May (Spring): mild weather, blooming parks, and long daylight—perfect for outdoor breaks and rooftop/riverfront photo ops.
Highlights
- Tram to the top of the Gateway Arch
- Climbing, slides and quirky art at City Museum
- Big-group bays at Topgolf Chesterfield
- Hands-on Anheuser-Busch brewery experience
- Food hall vibes at City Foundry + evening live music
Itinerary
Day 1
Downtown classics, playful afternoon at City Museum, then Delmar Loop vibes for dinner and music.
Gateway Arch tram + grounds (Gateway Arch National Park)
Start at the Arch: tram to the top, short museum walkthrough and riverfront photo ops.
Tips from local experts:
- Buy timed tram tickets in advance for your group (saves lines); the tram cars fit small groups so split up if needed.
- Spring winds off the river can be cool—bring a light layer for the top viewing windows.
- Best group photo: stand on the grassy west plaza with the Arch centered and the Mississippi in the background (morning light is flattering).
Transfer: walk/short ride to Old Courthouse
Quick transfer across the park to the historic Old Courthouse for a brief cultural stop.
Tips from local experts:
- If the group wants a scenic route, walk along the park loop—it's under 15 minutes and great for casual photos.
- Rideshare drop-offs are easy on Memorial Drive; have one person request the car early for a smooth handoff.
- Watch for pollen in May; sunglasses double as protection and make photos easier.
Old Courthouse quick visit
Explore the historic courthouse exhibits and the beautiful rotunda—great short cultural stop before lunch.
Tips from local experts:
- The rotunda is perfect for a quick group photo—try a wide lens and center the dome.
- Bathrooms and water fountains are available inside—handy for recharging before a long afternoon.
- If anyone's short on time, prioritize the top-floor exhibits and the rotunda view rather than a full museum walkthrough.
Transfer: ride to City Foundry (food hall + vendors)
Head to City Foundry for a social lunch with many shared-plate options—easy for groups who like variety.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a table ahead if you want guaranteed seating for 4–6; otherwise arrive slightly before peak (12pm) for easier seating.
- City Foundry has covered/outdoor options—ask vendors about shareable platters to split costs.
- In May, the courtyard is lovely—opt for outdoor seating if you prefer a breezy spring vibe.
Lunch at City Foundry (food hall & vendors)
Sample multiple vendors—great for picky eaters and splitting bills across the group.
Tips from local experts:
- Plan a couple of shared dishes (2–3 per 4 people) so everyone gets to try different vendors without overspending.
- There are long communal tables perfect for lively groups—arrive together and snag a space near the center.
- If allergies/pollen are a concern, choose an indoor vendor stall and ask about ingredient cross-contamination.
Transfer: short drive to City Museum
Quick drive or rideshare to City Museum—plan for street parking or paid lots nearby.
Tips from local experts:
- Rideshare is easiest—City Museum has busy parking; cruise-drop is faster for a group.
- Tell the driver to drop you at 701 N 15th St (main entrance) to avoid navigating crowded side streets.
- Carry a small daypack—City Museum has limited cubbies, so small items are easiest to keep on you.
City Museum — big-play afternoon
Explore multi-level tunnels, giant slides, rooftop attractions and quirky art—super social and energetic.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear socks and comfortable clothes—many exhibits require climbing and shoes/socks are enforced on slides.
- Aim for mid-afternoon to avoid the longest entry lines and to keep the group together while exploring.
- Split up deliberately into small teams to cover more of the museum, then reconvene on the rooftop for sunset views.
Transfer: unwind toward Kiener Plaza / quick rest
Short ride back toward downtown green space for a brief break to recharge before evening plans.
Tips from local experts:
- A short rest helps everyone freshen up—save energy for the evening music scene.
- If anyone needs a quick wardrobe change, public restroom options exist near Kiener Plaza.
- Spring blooms mean great bench spots for group photos—pick a bench with the park and skyline in frame.
Break: regroup & refresh at Kiener Plaza
30-minute sit, hydrate, check reservations, and plan transit for the evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Use this time to split up group payments or confirm evening reservations via phone—strong cell signal here.
- If anyone has spring allergies, carry tissues and antihistamine; trees are blooming in May.
- Plan a single rideshare for the group to the Loop to save on waiting and parking hassles.
Transfer: to The Loop for dinner & live music
Short ride to Delmar Loop neighborhood—home to Blueberry Hill and evening entertainment.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask your driver to drop you near 6504 Delmar Blvd so you’re steps from Blueberry Hill and other Loop spots.
- The Loop is compact—plan to walk between venues if you want to bar-hop after dinner.
- Look out for meter parking if you self-drive; evenings can be busy on weekends.
Dinner & live music at Blueberry Hill (Delmar Loop)
Classic Loop hangout with stage music, pub food and room for lively groups—perfect evening energy.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a table early for groups of 4–6+—Blueberry Hill handles lively parties well and has a stage for live acts.
- Ask about the nightly music schedule; often there are midweek or weekend special performances and trivia nights.
- Try splitting a few platter-style menu items so everyone can sample—great for groups and easy to split the bill.
Optional late-night: Ballpark Village for late drinks & nightlife
If the group has energy, take a short ride to Ballpark Village for bars, games and late-night vibes.
Tips from local experts:
- This is a lively scene—post-show crowds are common. Make one person the point for rideshare to get everyone home together.
- Ballpark Village has multiple bars and games, so split up and reconvene at a landmark (e.g., Saint Louis Cardinals statue).
- If you want quieter options, look for rooftop spaces—spring evenings are pleasant but can get breezy near the river.
Day 2
Local markets, outdoor boating in Forest Park, a playful Topgolf session and an evening escape room — a high-energy day.
Morning: Soulard Farmers Market stroll & breakfast
Fresh pastries, coffee and local vendors—perfect for a social morning and sampling local flavors.
Tips from local experts:
- If you're there on a weekend, come early for the best produce and smaller crowds; vendors sell shareable breakfast plates.
- Bring cash for small vendors (many accept cards but a few are cash-preferred) and split tasting plates among the group.
- Soulard is street-parking heavy—carpool or rideshare to avoid circling during busy market hours.
Transfer: ride to Forest Park Boathouse
Short drive to Forest Park for active water time—leave extra time for parking in spring crowds.
Tips from local experts:
- Forest Park has multiple entrances—have your driver aim for the Boathouse entrance on W. Pine to save walking time.
- Spring weekends fill up—if driving, plan to arrive early or choose a paid lot to avoid circling.
- Store small valuables in a daypack—boat rentals have limited storage.
Paddle boats / canoe rental at Forest Park Boathouse
Rent paddleboats or canoes for a relaxed, social hour on the lake—great group photos and light exercise.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve boats if possible for groups—two-person boats are standard, so plan pairings in advance to keep things quick.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses are helpful in May; river/park reflections magnify sun exposure.
- Bring a small waterproof bag for phones/cameras—water splashes are common during playful group rides.
Transfer: drive to The Hill for lunch
Short ride to The Hill neighborhood—famous for Italian food and group-friendly restaurants.
Tips from local experts:
- The Hill's streets can be tight; rideshares usually have preferred drop-off points—confirm with your driver.
- If anyone in the group has dietary restrictions, check menus online before you go; many Hill restaurants post full menus.
- Parking is limited—if you plan to drive, allow extra time to park or pick a restaurant with a small lot.
Lunch at Charlie Gitto's On The Hill
Classic family-style Italian—great for sharing pasta and antipasti across a group.
Tips from local experts:
- Order family-style dishes (large portions) and split to keep costs down and try more menu items.
- Reserve a table for 4–6+ ahead of time if you want guaranteed group seating, especially on weekend afternoons.
- Pair a couple bottles among the table if you drink—it's often cheaper than individual drinks, and staff will split pours.
Transfer: drive to Topgolf Chesterfield (active play)
Head out to Topgolf for a playful, competitive group session—private bays let you split costs easily.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a bay in advance for a guaranteed group space; bays accommodate 6+ and are perfect for social play.
- Topgolf is in Chesterfield (short drive)—combine rideshares or rent a van for the group to save on multiple cars.
- Wear comfortable shoes; spring temperatures can be warm in May and bays are semi-outdoor.
Topgolf group session (games, drinks & social competition)
Two-hour bay reservation for games, music and shared snacks—great for friendly competition.
Tips from local experts:
- Rotate players through the bay so everyone gets game time; ask staff about split-billing options for food and drinks.
- Order a few shareable appetizers and pitchers to lower per-person cost and keep energy up between swings.
- Topgolf staff often celebrate milestones—ask for a group photo with staff or scoreboard to remember the session.
Transfer: back to central St. Louis (The Grove) for dinner
Return to the city for a brewery taproom dinner—The Grove has group-friendly spaces and lively atmosphere.
Tips from local experts:
- The drive back can be 30–45 minutes depending on traffic—schedule a buffer so dinner reservations aren't rushed.
- If using rideshares, request larger vehicles for the group to stay together and minimize wait times.
- Consider a quick pit stop at a grocery or liquor store if you need water or mixers for a post-dinner meet-up.
Dinner & beers at 4 Hands Brewing Co. (taproom)
Local craft brewery with room for groups—shareable boards and flights make tasting simple and social.
Tips from local experts:
- Order a flight to sample multiple beers among the group and split a few snack plates for sharing.
- Taproom staff are friendly—ask for pairing suggestions or a tour of the tasting room if available.
- Spring evenings are great to grab a patio table; ask for one if you'd like outdoor seating but reserve early.
Transfer: short ride to Ballpark Village for evening escape room
Quick transfer back downtown to Ballpark Village for The Escape Game experience.
Tips from local experts:
- Book your escape room slot in advance and arrive 10–15 minutes early to get briefed and settle the group.
- Plan a single rideshare to Ballpark Village to keep the team together and reduce walking between venues.
- If dinner ran late, grab a quick snack beforehand—the Escape Game rooms require full focus and time commitment.
The Escape Game St. Louis (Ballpark Village) — evening challenge
60–90 minute immersive escape room experience—great for teamwork and laughs with friends.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose a room with a difficulty level that fits your group's vibe—moderate difficulty is usually the most fun for mixed-skill groups.
- Divide responsibilities (puzzle solver, inventory keeper, clue manager) to keep the group organized and engaged.
- Bring a small bag for valuables; pockets are best since loose items can be a distraction during puzzles.
Day 3
Beer heritage tour, neighborhood strolling and a classic BBQ send-off—relaxed morning with an energetic finish.
Anheuser-Busch Brewery tour & tasting
Iconic brewery tour with history, Clydesdales photo ops and guided tastings—great group experience.
Tips from local experts:
- Book tours in advance for groups—weekday morning slots are easiest to secure for larger groups.
- If you want Clydesdale viewing, check the schedule—these are seasonal appearances and often early in the day.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be ready for some walking; tasting portions are perfect for sharing rounds among friends.
Transfer: to Ballpark Village for lunch
Short ride to Ballpark Village—plenty of group-friendly restaurants and flexible ordering.
Tips from local experts:
- Ballpark Village has multiple eateries—choose one with communal seating or call ahead to hold space for 4–6.
- If your group wants a single bill, ask the restaurant about splitting options early—some places handle it better than others.
- Spring rooftop seating is popular—request it if weather's nice, but have a back-up indoor spot if it's windy.
Lunch & chill at Ballpark Village
Casual lunch and recovery time—good chance to trade photos and recap the trip together.
Tips from local experts:
- Order shareable plates or pitchers to keep tab-splitting easy and costs down for the whole group.
- If someone’s catching a late flight, this is a convenient spot near downtown transport routes.
- Check out the nearby Cardinals statues for a quick group photo outside before you leave.
Transfer: head to Delmar Loop for an afternoon stroll
Drive to The Loop for shopping, vintage stores and street music—casual neighborhood exploration.
Tips from local experts:
- The Loop has lots of quirky shops—set aside a budget and meet-ups points if the group wants to split up.
- Check event calendars—May often has weekend street musicians and pop-ups that add energy to the stroll.
- If anyone wants a souvenir, stores here often have local music and records that make fun group gifts.
Delmar Loop walking, shopping & record-store hopping
Explore vintage shops, local boutiques and street art—relaxed social time with snack stops as desired.
Tips from local experts:
- Pop into local coffee shops for a mid-walk recharge—many have communal seating for groups.
- Set a 60–90 minute window to avoid lingering too long and keep to travel/flight schedules if anyone’s leaving.
- Look for live storefront music—May evenings and afternoons often host outdoor performers on the Loop.
Ted Drewes frozen custard stop (sweet tradition)
Iconic St. Louis custard—great group treat and a local staple that's quick and memorable.
Tips from local experts:
- Get the 'concrete' (custard blended with mix-ins) for a communal dessert that's thick and shareable.
- Ted Drewes can have a short line—order one or two concretes to share among 4–6 so everyone samples.
- Carry napkins—custard melts quickly in May warmth; find a shady spot for your group to enjoy it.
Transfer: head to Pappy's Smokehouse for a BBQ send-off
Finish the trip with famous Memphis-style BBQ—expect lines, but it's worth the group experience.
Tips from local experts:
- Pappy's is popular—arrive early or put someone in line while others finish activities; sharing wait duty is a pro move.
- Split platters and sides among the table so everyone gets variety without ordering too many separate plates.
- If you want to avoid the line, check their hours and aim for an early dinner slot (they often sell out).
Dinner: Pappy's Smokehouse — classic BBQ finale
Legendary ribs and pulled pork—great group sharing, hearty portions and perfect trip send-off.
Tips from local experts:
- Order a couple of meats to share family-style—this is the most economical way for groups to taste the menu.
- Bring cash for sides/tips and be ready to split the bill via app if the staff allow multiple cards.
- Take advantage of outdoor picnic tables in spring if the line pushes into warm evening weather—very social atmosphere.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 3 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 13 |
| Restaurants | 6 |
| Total Activities | 18 |
| Total Places | 18 |
| Activities Types | Attraction, Transfer, Culture, Meal, Experience, Break, Nightlife, Neighborhood, Outdoor, Restaurant, Sport |
